South Korea's first female president Park Geun-hye was inaugurated during a ceremony in Seoul Monday.
During her speech, the 61-year-old daughter of South Korea's former military ruler Park Chung-hee, spoke plainly about her plans for dealing with North Korea.
I will not tolerate any action that threatens the lives of our people and the security of our nation, she said.
Park beat her liberal opponent in December's polls after one of the most hotly contested elections in years.
In a nod to the tradition and conservatism that helped her win the election, Park changed into customary Korean clothing called a Hanbok before entering the presidential residence, or Blue House as its known.
Later Park held bilateral meetings with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Japanese Vice Prime Minister Taro Aso.
